The Acoustic Energy AE100 Mk2 ranks #59 out of 88 total Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers for sound quality. See all Passive Home rankings for every top pick.
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#59 Acoustic Energy AE100 Mk2: $399 per pair Discontinued Amazon eBay
Pros: Good directivity linearity - on-axis and off-axis response track each other well despite an otherwise uneven overall response, which means the tonal problems can be EQ’d out with reasonably good success. Wide horizontal radiation, about ±50°. Nicely finished cabinet - the reviewer specifically called out the fit and finish as a genuine positive. Both units of the review pair measured closely matched to each other. Measured bass extension of 63Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 84dB.
Cons: High-frequency level runs noticeably too hot regardless of placement - the reviewer tried four different setups (near/far from wall, on-axis, 30° off-axis) at two listening distances and couldn’t get it to sound right at any of them. A mid-range dip that the reviewer attributes to internal cabinet resonance rather than intentional baffle-step compensation, reinforced by an internal inspection showing no cross-bracing and a slot port that may itself be resonating when tapped. Small tweeter waveguide magnet suggests limited power handling headroom. At this price and radiation pattern, the reviewer would pick the ELAC DBR62 (more neutral, similar ±60° pattern) or, for less money, the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 over this speaker; the KEF Q150 and SVS Prime Bookshelf are also called out as more linear alternatives nearby in price. Discontinued.
How it compares: Just above it: ELAC BS U5 - $457 more, 1Hz lower bass extension (-3dB). Just below it: Dynaudio X14 - $1101 more, 2Hz lower bass extension (-3dB).
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 42Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 63Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Crossover Frequency | 2.9kHz |
| DIY Kit | No |
| Dimensions | 11.4”H x 6.5”W x 9.8”D (290 x 165 x 250 mm) |
| Drivers | 5.25” midwoofer, 1” soft fabric dome tweeter with waveguide |
| Impedance | 6 ohms nominal, 4.7 ohms minimum (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Sensitivity | 84dB (measured average, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.96 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.18 |
| Weight | 20.1 lbs (9.1 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear slot port |
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